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Ash Wednesday events at SWB

February 15, 2023

We are moving towards the season of Easter in the Christian calendar, a time of expectation, a time of hope for many in our Trust and beyond. Lent starts this month on 22 February, after all the pancakes. Each year Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent and is always 46 days before Easter Sunday. Lent is a 40-day season (not counting Sundays) marked by recognising our conscience and where we would like to see change in the way we live, reflection, fasting and ultimately celebration.

The 40-day period represents Christ’s time of temptation in the wilderness, where he fasted and was tempted by Satan. Lent asks believers to set aside a time each year for similar fasting, marking an intentional season of focus on Christ’s life, ministry, sacrifice, and resurrection plus maybe setting something aside, or even adding to your month by being generous.

This year, chaplaincy will be offering the blessing of ashes (a sign of the cross on your forehead) as we walk around the wards. We won’t be taking much of your time, simply offering a quick one line prayer before administering the ash. We recognise how busy the Trust is and thought this would be easier for you.

Our chaplaincy team will be hosting a variety of Ash Wednesday events across SWB at the following locations:

  • Sandwell Chapel, 9.30am – 10.30am (will visit Sandwell wards between 10.30am – 12.30pm)
  • City Chapel, 9.30am – 10.30am (will visit City wards between 10.30am – 12.30pm)
  • Rowley Regis, 10am – 12pm
  • Leasowes, 10am – 12pm

For more information please call ext. 3552 or email mary.causer@nhs.net.